Quinn Ewers Set to Make History as Dolphins’ Ninth Rookie QB
Quinn Ewers is poised to become the ninth rookie quarterback to take the helm for the Miami Dolphins when they clash with the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Excitement is palpable as fans and analysts alike eagerly await his debut in head coach Mike McDaniel’s offensive scheme. However, history suggests that expectations should be tempered, both for the team and for Ewers himself.
Rookie Quarterback Track Record with the Dolphins
The Dolphins have struggled historically when it comes to rookie quarterbacks, boasting a dismal 2-6 record in games started by a first-year signal-caller. The last two victories came courtesy of Tua Tagovailoa in 2020 and David Woodley four decades earlier. This track record raises questions about how Ewers will fare against a Bengals team that is no stranger to high-stakes matchups.
From an individual standpoint, the statistics aren’t particularly promising either. Among the eight previous rookie quarterbacks who have started for Miami, only two have surpassed the 200-yard passing mark—Ryan Tannehill in his 2012 debut and the legendary Dan Marino in 1983. As Ewers prepares to step onto the field, he joins a lineage that has seen its share of challenges.
A Look Back at Dolphins’ Rookie Quarterbacks
To provide context for Ewers’ upcoming start, let’s take a look at how previous rookie quarterbacks have fared in their inaugural outings:
Skylar Thompson, 2022, vs. Minnesota:
– Result: 24-16 loss
– Stat line: 7 of 13 for 89 yards, 0 touchdowns, 0 interceptions, 1 sack
Thompson’s debut was marred by a hand injury, cutting short what was otherwise a challenging day against a formidable defense.
Tua Tagovailoa, 2020, vs. L.A. Rams:
– Result: 28-17 win
– Stat line: 12 of 22 for 93 yards, 1 touchdown, 0 interceptions, 1 lost fumble, 1 sack
Tagovailoa’s first start featured a dominant performance from the Dolphins’ defense, allowing him to secure a victory despite a rocky start.
Ryan Tannehill, 2012, at Houston:
– Result: 30-10 loss
– Stat line: 20 of 36 for 219 yards, 0 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 2 sacks
Tannehill’s debut was a tough test, as he struggled against a relentless Texans defense, leading to multiple turnovers.
John Beck, 2007, at Philadelphia:
– Result: 17-7 loss
– Stat line: 9 of 22 for 109 yards, 0 touchdowns, 0 interceptions, 0 sacks
Beck’s performance was hampered by his lack of game experience, as he had not played a single down in the first nine games of the season.
Dan Marino, 1984, vs. Buffalo:
– Result: 38-35 loss in OT
– Stat line: 19 of 29 for 322 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 3 sacks
Marino’s debut was a showcase of talent, despite the loss, marking the beginning of a legendary career.
David Woodley, 1980, vs. New Orleans:
– Result: 21-16 win
– Stat line: 4 of 15 for 61 yards, 0 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 0 sacks
Woodley’s early struggles were overshadowed by a comeback led by veteran Bob Griese.
Bob Griese, 1967, vs. Kansas City:
– Result: 24-0 loss
– Stat line: 11 of 22 for 101 yards, 0 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 3 sacks
Expectations were low for Griese in the early days of the franchise.
Rick Norton, 1966, vs. N.Y. Jets:
– Result: 19-14 loss
– Stat line: 8 of 20 for 97 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception, 5 sacks
Norton’s performance was part of the Dolphins’ difficult beginnings.
What Lies Ahead for Ewers
As Ewers prepares to make his debut, the Dolphins are hoping to break the trend of rookie quarterback struggles. With the team slated to face a competitive Bengals squad, all eyes will be on Ewers to see if he can reverse the fortunes of Miami’s rookie quarterbacks. His performance could set the stage for the rest of the season, as he navigates the pressures and expectations of the NFL.
